By: Sarah Baafi
In a strong push to combat illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, the Vice President of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has urged Members of Parliament from mining communities to actively support the government’s efforts.
Speaking at the Parliamentarians Conference on Restoring the Culture of Small-Scale Mining in Ghana, she emphasized the urgent need for collective action to protect the country’s environment.
“Over the years, we have witnessed an alarming level of environmental degradation caused by illegal and irresponsible mining practices,” she noted, highlighting that “all three water-basin systems in the country are under threat” and “forty-four of our forest reserves” have been lost to illegal mining.
The Vice President commended the new Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for his proactive approach to addressing the issue.
She stressed that a unified front is crucial in reversing the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities. The government has outlined steps to regulate the sector effectively, ensuring that small-scale mining benefits both the economy and local communities without harming the environment. As the Vice President pointed out, “The Government of Ghana recognizes that restoring responsible mining practices requires a multi-stakeholder approach.”
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, echoed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need to restore responsible mining practices.
He highlighted the destruction of forests, farmlands, and water bodies, which threatens both livelihoods and the national economy.
“One of the most pressing issues facing our country today is the sustainable management of our natural resources and hydrology,” he stated.
The conference brought together key stakeholders to discuss sustainable solutions for Ghana’s small-scale mining sector, underscoring the government’s commitment to responsible mining practices.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, reinforced the commitment to accountability, warning that any parliamentarian found complicit in illegal mining activities would face legal consequences.
“Let me be unequivocal in stating that Parliament will not tolerate any member, regardless of their position, who is found to be complicit in illegal mining activities,” he declared.
This stance reflects the government’s resolve to tackle galamsey, which has led to severe environmental degradation and health issues.
The renewed fight against galamsey involves deploying military personnel to protect water bodies and introducing community mining programs to regulate small-scale mining.
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